The 25 Best Things To Do in Pittsburgh, PA

Looking for the best things to do in Pittsburgh, PA? I’ve got you covered! After living in Pittsburgh for many years, I’ve compiled the best list of essential Pittsburgh things to do and see to help a first time visitor. From places to visit in Pittsburgh to activities you can’t miss, it’s all here!

Pittsburgh is a special place for me.

I get to visit this City of Bridges several times of year to see friends and family, and I must say, I deeply appreciate the sights and sounds of Pittsburgh.

There is so much to love about this city! With so many varied things to do in Pittsburgh – for the history lovers, artistic folks, and foodies – there really is something for everyone here .

It simultaneously feels part small-town and part bustling, and is a healthy mix of historical and modern. Whether you’re here for the sports teams, the history, the art, or the culture, the Steel City is a great place to visit!

If you are planning ta rip here soon and want to know the best things to do in Pittsburgh, I have got you covered.

This guide contains the top Pittsburgh attractions and sights for anyone visiting for the first or hundredth time! Let’s get into it.

The Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh

1. Take a guided Pittsburgh Highlights Tour.

I always recommend taking a walking tour on your first visit to any new city. Why? Because you get your bearings in the city and learn about places that you may just want to visit further later!

Pittsburgh is no different.

In fact, Pittsburgh’s geography can be confusing to first time visitors, because the streets are often more like a haphazard scribble than a neat grid, due to the many hills and rivers to navigate around.

This can leave even someone with a great sense of direction rather lost.

My top walking tour recommendation is this private, Essential Tour of Pittsburgh Walking Experience. It visits many of the sights on this list, like the Incline, the North Shore (the Steelers’ and Pirates’ home base), and Oakland, to name a few.

So if you are a first timer looking for a great introduction to the city, this one is for you! You will learn a lot, get oriented, and hit some top Pittsburgh sights.

2. Ride up Mount Washington on the famous Incline.

Pittsburgh has two famous incline trains that run up and down Mount Washington. A ride to the top is both a quintessential Pittsburgh experience and provides an outstanding view of the city.

You can choose between the Duquesne Incline or the Monongahela Incline – or ride both to experience it all! Both inclines provide easy access to the Grandview Overlook Observation Deck, just a short walk away.

Once you are on higher ground, consider walking through Shiloh Street, just across from the Monongahela Incline station. Taverns, ice cream, and restaurants line the streets in this popular local spot.

The Monongahela Incline has been in near-continuous use for a century and a half, and was the first passenger funicular railway built in the USA. Don’t miss it!

Pro Tip: Sit in the front to have the best view as you ascend or descend! Want to ride the incline as part of a tour? Consider the Essential Tour of Pittsburgh mentioned above.

Where to find them:

Monongahela Incline – 8 Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Duquesne Incline – 1197 W. Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Grandview Overlook – 136-160 Grandview Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15211

3. Explore the trendy South Side.

When traveling to Pittsburgh, the South Side neighborhood is definitely a hotspot worth checking out!

The South Side is known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and galleries, many of them small mom-and-pop varieties. The area is also home to some of the best street art in the city.

The South Side also has a thriving nightlife scene, so be sure to check out some of the local bars and music venues. On weekends, expect locals and tourists to walk the sidewalks as they bar-hop.

Here are a few venues to try out:

• Big Dog Coffee – A quiet yet quirky coffee shop just outside of the bustling business district.
• La Palapa – Authentic Mexican cuisine with everything from delicious tacos to custom drinks.
• Page’s Dairy Mart – A Pittsburgh staple ice cream shop that has been a hotspot since I was a child! It is on the eastern edge of South Side and seasonally open.
• The Pretzel Shop – A specialty pretzel store that has been in operation since 1927. Get classic pretzels, pretzel sandwiches, and more.
• Carson Street Deli – A Southside staple sandwich shop and craft beer bar hybrid! A great lunch stop as you stroll the city.
• Birmingham Bridge Tavern – A brick-walled tavern featuring fare such as burgers, sandwiches, and plenty of craft beer.

The South Side is easily one of the most popular places to see in Pittsburgh! I have spent many days walking to the vintage shops and cafes and many nights eating great food on Carson Street.

4. Visit the Vibrant Andy Warhol Museum.

If you are interested in art, then you need to visit the Andy Warhol Museum to learn a thing or two about Pittsburgh’s pop-art king. Fun fact, this museum is also North America’s largest single-artist museum.

Warhol’s brightly colored lithographs and sculptures are spread throughout the museum. Keep your eye out for some of his most famous works!

You’ll get to explore Warhol’s life from a young artist in Pittsburgh to becoming a world-class artist in New York City. Listen in one one of the twice-daily talks for unique insights into his life.

The most memorable room for me is one filled with metallic silver balloons titled Silver Clouds.

The Warhol Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Pittsburgh, and for good reason. Don’t miss it!

Address: 117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

5. See the blooms at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Phipps Conservatory is one of my favorite places to visit in Pittsburgh when I come to town, especially around the holidays.

The internationally-known Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens walks you through 23 different gardens, where you’ll find tropical plants and trees, colorful orchids, and prickly cacti.

The conservatory hosts a variety of different exhibitions each year, such as spring and winter flower shows and holiday themed displays.

In the winter, a Christmas-style exhibit features twinkling lights and a huge toy train display. In the spring, nearly 70,000 flowers bloom. So, year round, a visit to the Phipps Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh!

The Phipps Conservatory calendar also has loads of hands-on activities, lectures, and classes year round, so if you want the full experience, check that out here.

Address: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

6. Check out the Heinz History Center.

The Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of Western Pennsylvania.

Throughout the six floors of this iconic museum, visitors will find exhibits ranging from the war history to sports to pop culture. The Heinz History Center is filled with 250 years of information showcasing Pittsburgh’s history.

Visitors can start by exploring the “Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation” exhibit, which showcases the city’s role as a hub of industry and invention.

From there, you can delve into the museum’s vast collection of artifacts, which includes everything from antique cars and airplanes to historical clothing and furniture.

The Heinz History Center is also home to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, which chronicles the region’s rich sports history, which locals pride themselves on!

Here you will also find the original set from the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood show, as well as an enormous collection of Heinz artifacts.

Address: 1212 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

7. Ride the roller coasters at Kennywood

For more than 125 years, locals and tourists alike have been visiting this Pittsburgh landmark – and I am proudly one of them! I spent many a summer riding the roller coasters at Kennywood, a local amusement park absolutely beloved by the city.

Kennywood features both steep steel roller coasters as well as rickety wooden coasters. Carousels and spinning rides and bumper cars can also be found here.

Younger children can enjoy Kiddieland which is filled with their favorite characters.

Pro Tip: Remember, Pittsburgh is a city with four distinct seasons. The amusement park shuts down in the winter. Opening dates will typically fall between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Be sure to check ahead of time!

Kennywood is one of the top local pastimes for just about anyone who grew up in Pittsburgh. If you visit in season, consider spending a day at the park.

Address: 4800 Kennywood Blvd, West Mifflin, PA 15122

8. Eat at the world-famous Primanti Brothers.

The long-time local favorite and now world famous sandwich shop called Primanti Brothers is a must visit place in Pittsburgh.

When you need a bite to eat, head down to the original Primanti Brothers on 18th Street. (Note, their are now several other locations if the original one is not accessible to you!)

In the 1930s, Joe Primanti’s shop became famous with the late-night truckers who stopped in to eat at his sandwich shop. Nowadays, this place is well known and has been featured on many TV shows and Food Network series.

Primanti’s signature sandwich comes on thick sliced Italian bread and is covered with melted provolone cheese. But what makes it unforgettable is the pile of french fries served right on the bread. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even add a fried egg.

A meal at Primanti Brothers is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh and is a must-do for any first-timer in the city!

Address: 46 18th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

9. Visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

No Pittsburgh itinerary is complete without a visit to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

Best known for its dinosaur exhibits, this is a great place to learn more about these prehistoric creatures.

Visitors can also enjoy exhibits on the wildlife of Africa and North America and their habitats. Watson Hall is filled with ancient Egyptian artifacts treasures.

 This museum was founded by Pittsburgh-based industrialist Andrew Carnegie in 1896, and is home to some 22 million specimens.

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

10. Take a Whiskey Walking Tour.

Whiskey fanatics should absolutely book this guided whiskey tasting tour in Downtown Pittsburgh.

You’ll learn about whiskey’s role in the city’s politics and learn about prohibition times in Pittsburgh. You’ll also get to sample several drinks, including one of the oldest American whiskeys.

Four whiskey tastings and discount cocktails are included, as is water, tea, and/or snacks.

Most notably, you’ll get to explore sites where the Whiskey Rebellion and Prohibition took place in Pittsburgh!

Pro Tip: Note that this tour is only available on Saturdays and it does sell out! Be sure to book your whiskey walking tour in advance!

11. Hop on a double decker bus tour to get a city overview.

If you’d like to be toured around the city by bus, or if you happen to be visiting in winter and prefer not to walk, a Double Decker Bus sightseeing tour is just for you!

You’ll drive by over two dozen sights, many from this list, to get your bearings and orient yourself in the city. You’ll tour through the South Side and the Strip District, as well as see where the Andy Warhol Museum and the National Aviary are found.

An expert guide will provide live commentary about the history of the city along the way. Riders can choose from the open-air upper-level for views or a climate-controlled lower level if it’s chilly outside.

12. View the bridges and rivers in the city.

Affectionately known to locals as the “City of Bridges,” Pittsburgh has a grand total of 446 bridges across the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers.

Prior to the iconic bridges that cross the Three Rivers, Pittsburgh had a rugged terrain of deep valleys, creeks, and rivers, that isolated many of the city’s communities. The building of these many bridges unites neighborhoods all across the ‘Burgh and make traveling much easier!

You’ll see industrial bridges, bright yellow bridges, walking bridges, and just about every other type. Take all the pictures!

13. Wander around Point State Park

The iconic 36-acre Point State Park marks the place where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers merge into the Ohio River. Hence, the “Three Rivers.”

The triangle tip of land is sometimes called the Golden Triangle and it is a top spot for fairs and festivals like the Three Rivers Art Festival or the Three Rivers Regatta.

You’ll also find 23 spots around Point State Park that commemorate the French and Indian War. Learn the history through plaques, markers, and monuments, if you can find them all!

Though there are no hiking trails within the park, two notable trails are accessible from within the park: the 37-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail and the 141-mile Great Allegheny Passage.

Pro Tip: If you plan to hike, check out my ultimate list of the best hiking gear for women.

Address: 601 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

14. Get Artsy at the Carnegie Museum of Art.

Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1895, this art museum features a collection of more than 35,000 pieces!

This museum is a must-see for anyone who loves art and is looking for the best things to do in Pittsburgh. It is a staple of the city’s cultural scene for over a century.

The Carnegie’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative art pieces, as well as photographs and more. Visitors to the Carnegie Museum of Art will have the opportunity to view works by some of the most celebrated artists in history, such as Vincent van Gogh, Edward Hopper, and Claude Monet.

The museum also features a variety of contemporary art exhibitions, showcasing the work of emerging artists from around the world. Exhibits can change, so check out what to expect here.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational experience, the Carnegie Museum of Art is a fantastic destination to add to your Pittsburgh itinerary.

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

15. Traveling with kids? Hit the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh.

On Pittsburgh’s Northside sits the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in Allegheny Center. If you happen to be traveling with children, you won’t want to miss this!

The museum has plenty of interactive exhibits both inside and outdoors. For example, the Tough Art exhibit has touchable interactive artworks for kids and the Garage allows children to put their building skills to work to race cars and creations on a 37-foot race track.

Exhibitions and activities can change throughout the year, but there is always something fun going on here!

Address: 10 Children’s Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

16. Learn all about glassblowing at the Pittsburgh Glass Center.

Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh is the Pittsburgh Glass Center, a haven for glassblowing enthusiasts and creatives.

Founded in 2001, this center showcases the artistry of glassblowing through live demonstrations, exhibits, classes, and workshops. Visitors can even try their hand at the craft with guidance from expert instructors.

With a mission to push the boundaries of traditional glass art, the Pittsburgh Glass Center offers everything from one-day classes to multi-week intensive courses. And for those who prefer to admire the beauty of blown glass, the galleries feature rotating exhibitions that showcase both local and international artists.

Truly a gem in the city, the Pittsburgh Glass Center is a must-see for anyone looking for unique and educational things to do in Pittsburgh.

Address: 5472 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

17. Visit the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark.

I passed by this National Historic Landmark growing up, but as an adult, the Carrie Blast Furnaces takes on a new meaning.

Standing tall, these giant blast furnaces tell a remarkable story of Pittsburgh’s industrial history. Once the heart of the U.S. Steel Homestead Works, the furnaces now stand as a testament to the city’s transformation from a bustling hub of heavy industry to a thriving cultural destination.

Visitors can explore the machinery up close, learn about the steel industry and its impact on society, and marvel at the scope of human ingenuity that made it all possible.

Looking t this landmark is like taking a step back in time to when Pittsburgh was a legendary steel mill town.

The Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Pittsburgh is a must-visit destination for history buffs and industrial enthusiasts alike.

Address: 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15218

18. Take a Gateway Clipper Fleet cruise.

Want to see Pittsburgh from a different vantage point? Take a Ride on the Gateway Clipper riverboat!

Riders will pass by The Point, Heinz Field and PNC Park, as well as sail under the iconic bridges of the city.

Before boarding the riverboat in Historic Station Square, take a look at the “Gateway to Pittsburgh” murals along the ramps to get a visual history of the area over the last 400 years.

On the Gateway Clipper, you can sit back and enjoy the cityscape while you learn a wide all about the city of Pittsburgh. The top deck is a prime spot for photos!

The Gateway Clipper offers sightseeing cruises most often, but they also run dinner, dance, holiday, and kids cruises, too.

Pro Tip: The Gateway Clipper offers shuttle service to all the games and concerts at PNC Park and Heinze Field. If you are already headed to an event, why not make this a part of your experience?

Address: 350 W Station Square Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

18. Take a walk on Canton Street.

The Pittsburgh South Hills neighborhood where Canton Street lives is not only the steepest street in Pittsburgh but one of the steepest in the world.

Picturesque Canton Avenue is only 630 feet long but it features a whopping 37% grade. For reference, the famous Lombard Street in San Francisco has only a 27% grade.

Canton Street is a one way road, going up, so if you drive up it is quite a feat. Or you can get your heart pumping and take the sidewalk climb up.

19. Explore the lively Strip District.

The Strip District is a great stop to explore during your visit to Pittsburgh. Here you will find some of the most fantastic food, shops, and flowers in Pittsburgh, along with sidewalk vendors and street food.

You could easily spend all day strolling along Smallman Street and Penn Avenue in the Strip, stopping into food stalls and tiny shops. Some popular suggestions are the de Fer Coffee and Tea house, or a piping hot breakfast at Pamela’s Diner.

Browse the vendor booths, stop at the Pennsylvania Macaroni Company for infused olive oils, ad get some candy at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop.

This famous 1½-square mile strip of land along sits the Allegheny River and is located just east of The Point.

20. Visit the Cathedral of Learning.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning is a tall 42-story Gothic skyscraper that can be seen from all around the campus. It is the world’s second tallest educational building, second only to the main building of the University of Moscow.

Take a self-guided stroll inside to explore the ornate main lobby known as The Commons Room or the Honors College on the 36th floor. Explore the ½-acre 15th Century English perpendicular hall filled with picturesque arches.

And, my personal favorite, tour the Nationality Rooms created by international communities around Pittsburgh! These individual rooms showcase details of specific homelands, like my own Lithuanian heritage depicted on their Christmas trees here around the holidays.

This is one of the coolest things to do in Pittsburgh for anyone interested in international traditions and cultures1

Address: 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260

21. Enjoy a Game at PNC Park.

Whether you are a baseball fan or not, a trip to PNC Park along the Allegheny River is a fun stop!

If you do attend a game, grab a seat in the main grandstand where you can not only you see the ball game but will also enjoy the Pittsburgh skyline views! Look for the yellow Roberto Clemente Bridge from your seat.

On non game days, you may even be able to tour the training facilities and the Legacy Theater museum, press box, dugout, batting cages, and more.

Address: 115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Ready for Adventure? Subscribe Today.

Send me the newsletter

Unsubscribe at anytime.

Built with ConvertKit

22. Learn about Pittsburgh’s History at the Fort Pitt Museum.

At the Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park, visitors can learn more about the Pittsburgh area’s pivotal role during the French and Indian War beyond the utdoor placards mentioned above.

Stop in and see war artifacts like the intricately carved powder horn that Jacob Willhelm carried in 1764 and more.

You can also visit the Fort Pitt Block House, the only structure of the Fort Pitt complex still standing.

Originally built in 1764, the Block House is a remnant of the fortifications that stood during the French and Indian War. It is the oldest building in Pittsburgh and one of the few surviving structures from the 18th century in the entire country.

Visiting this site provides a glimpse into the history of the region and the struggles that early settlers faced. Take a step back in time and experience one of the most important landmarks in Pittsburgh’s history at the Fort Pitt Block House.

Address: Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Pl, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

23. See history at The Frick.

The Frick in Pittsburgh is a renowned museum, which not only depicts the historic architecture dating back to the Gilded Age but also offers a surprising array of art exhibitions.

The mansion, which was once home to Henry Clay Frick, is now a symbol of the richness and grandeur of the past. The art collection features artists like Bellini, Goya, and Whistler, amongst many others.

Moreover, the museum regularly puts up exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, keeping up with the ever-evolving art scene.

The Frick offers diverse experiences for visitors, including educational programming and events throughout the year.

The Car and Carriage Museum houses more than 20 vintage automobiles to explore, and is the perfect place for car enthusiasts in Pittsburgh.

Finally, and my personal favorite part, you can stroll the garden paths through 5½-acres to the active greenhouse.

As one of the top things to do in Pittsburgh, The Frick is a site of historical importance, offering the patrons a chance to explore and learn about the past, along with indulging in art and its significance in the present.

Address: 7227 Reynolds St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208

24. Take a bike ride on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.

The 33-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail is a great place to get outside and enjoy Pittsburgh culture. It features a trio of biking and walking trails along the three rivers that merge at Point State Park, mentioned above.

These trails take you through the unique neighborhoods and historical sites around Pittsburgh.

The 6.9-mile Southern Segment follows the Monongahela River to Station Square and passes the Duquesne Incline. You’ll go under the Fort Pitt Bridge and see the Gateway Clipper before reaching Station Square.

The Middle Segment leads from the Strip District along the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers 6.8 miles to Schenley Park.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to book the private, Essential Tour of Pittsburgh Walking Experience. It visits many of the sights on this list, like the Pittsburgh Incline, the North Shore (the Steelers’ and Pirates’ home base), Oakland, and more!

25. See the McDonald’s Big Mac Museum.

Inside the McDonald’s restaurant on Lincoln Highway in Irwin, those who dare can discover a small museum of McDonald’s paraphernalia, including the chronological history of the famous Big Mac.

This unusual museum was opened for the 40th anniversary of the Big Mac, which was created by Jim Delligatti in the Pittsburgh area back in 1967. It is quirky, informative, and everything you would expect from a Big Mac Museum!

Explore a chronological timeline of the Big Mac through history as well as the ever-changing vintage McDonald’s food packaging. Knickknacks, mini sculptures, and toys are also featured.

The museum is free, so it is a cheap and fun stop! I recommend it for anyone who either a) loves McDonald’s or b) has a n interest in quirky stops.

Address: 9061 Lincoln Hwy, Irwin, PA 15642

Where to Stay in Pittsburgh, PA

If you’re visiting Pittsburgh for a few days – which you obviously should! – here are my top hotel recommendations in the city.

I highly recommend choosing the one that is closest to the main sights that interest you. (If it were me, my top choice would definitely be staying in the South Side, because it is a reasonable distance from almost everything on this list!)

1. SpringHill Suites South Side

The SpringHill Suites near SouthSide Works is a great option for those who want to explore the mom and pop eateries, the quirky cafes, and this fun weekend hangout spot. this hotel also has quick access to Oakland.

The hotel offers an indoor pool and rooms with a flat-screen TV. SpringHill Suites Pittsburgh Southside Works rooms include a sitting area and work desk. The rooms are equipped with a microwave and refrigerator.

Note that this hotel is 3 miles from downtown Pittsburgh and roughly a 10-minute drive from the Andy Warhol Museum.

2. Sheraton Station Square

The Sheraton Station Square is a nice, clean hotel with access to plenty of city highlights, like the Gateway Clipper and the Station Square shops and sights!

Featuring a scenic riverfront location in the heart of Pittsburgh, this hotel has a state-of-the-art fitness center, an on-site restaurant and an indoor swimming pool.

Consider splurging for a river view room for what is possibly the best hotel view in all of Pittsburgh. This hotel is best suited for those who want easy access to downtown over South Side proper.

3. Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown

The Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown is minutes from the Frick Art & Historical Center, and close to Kennywood Park. It is a prime location and highly rated place to park yourself during your trip!

Surrounded by the many museums, gardens and entertainment options in Pittsburgh, this hotel offers an indoor swimming pool, an exercise center, and a free hot breakfast every day.

This hotel is great for anyone looking to explore downtown! The Heinz History Center, Andy Warhol Museum, and Roberto Clemente Bridge are all at your fingertips.

Final Thoughts: Fun Things To Do in Pittsburgh

There is so much to see in the city of Pittsburgh.

Art lovers, culture lovers, and history lovers can all find plenty of places to visit, not to mention foodies and outdoorsy types! If you are a mix of everything like me, you have your work cut out for you on your visit.

Whether you are spending one day in Pittsburgh or one week exploring the city, I can guarantee that you’ll enjoy it.

Let me know which sight you are most excited for below!

Pin Me for Later!